New Drive-Through COVID Testing Site to Open in Inverness
A brand-new drive-through coronavirus testing centre is set to launch in Inverness, boosting the UK Government’s efforts to ramp up testing for NHS staff and key workers across the nation.
The new facility, located at the UHI Inverness campus, officially opens on 26 April and will operate by appointment only. It’s part of a rapidly expanding network of testing sites popping up nationwide, designed to help thousands more frontline heroes get checked quickly.
UK’s Testing Network Grows with 35 Sites and Counting
This comes after the Government teamed up with universities, research bodies and private firms to fast-track new labs and field testing locations. So far, 35 sites have launched across the UK, offering vital PCR swab tests to spot active coronavirus cases.
These tests are a lifeline for NHS workers and others in essential roles. Those who test negative can safely return to work, while positives can isolate and recover without risking further spread.
Government Ministers Praise the Move
“The UK Government is rapidly scaling up the national effort to boost testing capacity for coronavirus to protect the vulnerable, support our NHS, and ultimately save lives,” said Health Minister Lord Bethell.
“This new service will help end the uncertainty of whether NHS and social care staff and other key workers need to stay at home, meaning those who test negative will be able to return to work.”
Professor John Newton, National Coordinator for the UK Coronavirus Testing Strategy, added: “New testing sites such as this one are a key pillar of our 5-pillar plan to scale up testing. They are critical in helping frontline workers stuck at home to get back to their jobs swiftly if they test negative.”
“It’s a brilliant example of industries coming together to ramp up mass testing and meet our goal of 100,000 daily tests by month’s end.”
Douglas Ross, UK Government minister, said: “This funded testing centre in Inverness will help key workers in the area carry on their crucial work, looking after those who need it most.”
“It’s one of four centres now open across Scotland as part of our pledge to expand testing UK-wide. We will keep fighting to save lives and protect our NHS.”
Quick, Self-Administered Tests with Fast Results
The Inverness centre will offer self-administered PCR tests, with results delivered within days. Meanwhile, the Government is also fast-tracking a home-testing service for critical workers, backed by Amazon’s logistics and other partners, to make testing even easier.
